Washington Football Team: Taylor Heinicke, it’s time to Put up your Dukes

The quarantine QB is quietly emerging as the backup quarterback for the Washington Football Team. Since his arrival last December, Taylor Heinicke has made the most of his opportunities.

In the 20-14 loss versus the Carolina Panthers, Heinicke played only 35% of Washington’s total plays and outproduced starter Dwayne Haskins, who played 65% of the snaps. In that game, Heinicke was 12-of-17 with 137 yards and a touchdown.

Two weeks later versus Tampa Bay, he turned in one of the most admirable performances in WFT history. Athough it was in a losing effort, there’s no shame in losing the eventual Super Bowl champions. The Washington Football Team was arguably the toughest game for Tampa Bay and Heinicke was a huge reason why.

Seven months later, Heinicke now finds himself in an important role on the team.

Many pundits assumed that the Buccaneers would have their way with the WFT, but that wasn’t the case. Heinicke showed excellent mobility versus a Bucs pass rush that dominated Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Taylor Heinicke can seize the QB2 spot for Washington

Heinicke has the opportunity to claim a vital role on the team: the backup quarterback position. Kyle Allen endured a setback while recovering from his dislocated ankle, so Heinicke will have the chance to solidify the position with a strong outing against a Bill Belichick-coached defense.

Against the New England Patriots, Heinicke will see an extended period of playing time. Heinicke and wide receiver Cam Sims were in sync the last time they took the field, so it will be interesting to see if their chemistry carries over into Thursday night.

Another player who bears watching along with Heinicke is Dyami Brown. Reports on the rookie receiver out of North Carolina have indicated he’s more than a one trick pony. If he is, the staff might take a similar approach as the previous administration did with Terry McLaurin.

For what it’s worth, the coaching staff has given Heinicke the chance in practice to work with the starters. By no means is he expected to beat out Ryan Fitzpatrick for the starting job, but the former undrafted talent has looked capable during live game action.

With only three preseason games, these reps are essential for a player like Heinicke. He’s looked well in limited action and there’s some intrigue as to if he can be the long-term answer at QB. A strong showing in the preseason would give WFT’s coaching staff something to think about.